Video Surveillance Systems

Video Surveillance Systems Buying Tips from Other BuyerZone Users

Sometimes, the best way to learn about the purchases you need to make
for your business is from other people going through the same process.
Here are tips submitted by other Video Surveillance buyers.

Match your DVR to your cameras

Not all bandwidth requirements are the same. Be sure your internet service provider (ISP) has enough bandwidth built into your plan you are able to use all remote viewing features.

"Make sure and do your research with your internet
service provider to verify what DVR and camera system requirements it
will support before you make a purchase. Many are not compatible with
each other, such as requiring a static IP address in order to view your
DVR from another computer online."- Cathy, Business Services, Salem, OR

Get a site visit for the most accurate analysis

Not all security system will cover every possible scenario. Even identical building might have different security requirements as employee and customer habits are prone to being different. Never accept a bid over the phone without the dealer or their representative touring your site in person.

"In cases of buying security surveillance it is
best to have a customer representative visit the site to accurately
analyze your needs based on the environment of your home or business."- Jay Sanders, Agriculture, St. Paul, OR

Apply the basics of comparison shopping

Demand a detailed cost breakdown

Getting an itemized bid is important. An itemized bid should include labor, cost of cable, and hardware that will be needed in addition to the kit cost. Be leery of those who will not provide an itemized list of potential charges. Those who cannot bid a job correctly are least likely to complete it correctly. Be sure to get bid from various installers and dealers as well. Comparative shopping means educating yourself along the way.

"Be sure to get a budget proposal that specifies
each and every one of the line items. That way, you can compare prices
with other production companies and also keep track on things when you
go over budget.
1 out of 10 companies I talked was finally able to
do that without any request. That is a way to find out who'd screw you
over and who's not."- Andrea, Media/Entertainment/Publishing, Los Angeles, CA

Don't cheap out

In addition to whether or not a kit will fit your business needs there is also the question of quality and longevity. Quality of picture often can mean the difference between identifying the camera's subject and simply knowing something happened but not really knowing what exactly happened.

Clarity is crucial. Longevity is the other thing one gives up when going with a cheap solution. Replacing cheap camera after cheap camera or DVRs that continually overheat or cease to function is often more expensive than just buying a higher-end solution in the beginning. Plus one is leaving their business unprotected until repairs can be made.

"Never buy the cheapest system. Buy the best you can and you won't regret it."- Terry Vaughn, Retail, Alton, IL

Remember that in addition to these remarks, asking businesses comparable to your own about their video solution is a good practice as well. They should be able to give you a few helpful tips in choosing and installing your system, or having it installed.